1. Multi-Stakeholder Forestry Programme – Ramechhap, Okhaldhunga, Khotang (2013–2016)
The Multi-Stakeholder Forestry Programme (MSFP) was one of ECARDS-Nepal’s most extensive environmental initiatives, aimed at promoting sustainable forest management, biodiversity conservation, and climate adaptation. Implemented in 187 VDCs across Ramechhap, Okhaldhunga, and Khotang, the project worked closely with over 2,000 local forestry user groups (LFUGs) to enhance community-led forest conservation efforts.
A key focus of the project was capacity building for community forest user groups (CFUGs). ECARDS-Nepal trained over 20,000 households on climate-resilient forestry management, scientific forest harvesting techniques, and enterprise development. By integrating GPS-based boundary mapping and resource assessment, the project ensured that local communities could track and manage their forest resources sustainably. Additionally, the initiative promoted alternative income sources, such as non-timber forest products (NTFPs), eco-tourism, and agroforestry, reducing dependency on deforestation.
Another major outcome of the project was the development of 52 Local Adaptation Plans of Action (LAPAs) and 548 Community Adaptation Plans of Action (CAPAs), ensuring that climate resilience strategies were embedded within local governance. The project also introduced the Green Road Corridor concept, planting trees along rural roadsides to combat soil erosion and improve ecosystem services. By combining conservation, economic empowerment, and community participation, the MSFP significantly contributed to Nepal’s efforts in sustainable forest management and climate change adaptation.
2. Capacity Development of Watershed Communities – Dadeldhura, Baitadi, Bajhang, Doti, Bajura, Achham (2016–2020)
ECARDS-Nepal implemented the Capacity Development of Watershed Communities project to enhance the climate resilience of local communities in six districts of the far-western region. The project aimed to improve watershed management practices, prevent soil erosion, and promote sustainable land-use strategies. Given the increasing impacts of climate change—such as erratic rainfall and landslides—this initiative was crucial in ensuring long-term environmental sustainability.
One of the primary components of the project was training local communities on integrated watershed management and bio-engineering techniques. ECARDS-Nepal conducted 78 training events for 108 Community Development Groups (CDGs), teaching them about low-cost erosion control, water conservation techniques, and sustainable farming practices. The project also trained 164 local professionals, including plumbers, engineers, and forest officials, ensuring that technical expertise remained within the community even after the project ended.
Additionally, the initiative introduced a financial management and institutional development component, helping community groups develop long-term plans for maintaining watershed projects. By integrating local governance structures into the project, ECARDS-Nepal ensured that watershed conservation efforts were sustainable and community-driven. The success of this initiative demonstrated the power of participatory conservation in building climate resilience and protecting vital water sources in Nepal’s mountain regions.
3. Enhanced Local Adaptation Plan for Action (LAPA) – Jajarkot (2018–2019)
The Enhanced Local Adaptation Plan for Action (LAPA) in Jajarkot was a pioneering initiative that applied GIS-based sub-watershed management approaches to climate adaptation planning. ECARDS-Nepal worked closely with local government bodies, farmers, and community groups to design climate-resilient strategies that could be integrated into municipal development plans.
The project began with Vulnerability Risk Assessments (VRA) across 10 wards in two municipalities, identifying key climate risks such as droughts, landslides, and declining agricultural productivity. Based on these findings, ECARDS-Nepal facilitated community workshops, policy dialogues, and training sessions to help local governments draft scientifically informed and community-driven adaptation plans.
A crucial part of the project was enhancing the capacity of local farmers to adapt to climate change. ECARDS-Nepal introduced drought-resistant crop varieties, organic fertilizers, and improved irrigation techniques to help farmers mitigate climate-related losses. Additionally, the project emphasized gender-sensitive climate planning, ensuring that women and marginalized groups were actively involved in decision-making processes. By embedding LAPA strategies within municipal policies, the project created a long-lasting framework for climate adaptation in Jajarkot.
4. Rainwater Harvesting and Groundwater Recharge Programme – Kathmandu (2016–2020)
As Nepal’s urban areas faced increasing water shortages and groundwater depletion, ECARDS-Nepal launched the Rainwater Harvesting and Groundwater Recharge Programme in Kathmandu. The project aimed to increase water availability by promoting rainwater harvesting technologies and groundwater recharge systems in both residential and public spaces.
ECARDS-Nepal developed technical designs for rainwater harvesting systems and trained engineers, plumbers, and local homeowners on how to install and maintain them. The project installed 14 demonstration sites in schools and public places, showcasing the practical benefits of rainwater harvesting. Additionally, over 2,134 households adopted rainwater harvesting systems, significantly reducing their dependency on municipal water supplies.
Beyond infrastructure, ECARDS-Nepal conducted public awareness campaigns and technical workshops, educating communities on water conservation, recharge pit installation, and policy frameworks for sustainable water management. This initiative played a vital role in addressing Kathmandu’s water crisis while promoting environmentally friendly urban development.
5. Enhanced Local Adaptation Plan for Action (LAPA) – Kalikot (2018–2019)
In Kalikot, ECARDS-Nepal implemented another Enhanced Local Adaptation Plan for Action (LAPA) project, applying GIS mapping and participatory scenario development tools to address climate-related vulnerabilities. The project covered 10 wards across six municipalities, helping local governments integrate climate adaptation into their development strategies.
One of the key outcomes of this initiative was training local authorities and community leaders on climate risk management, flood prevention, and sustainable agriculture. ECARDS-Nepal also conducted hands-on training for farmers, introducing climate-smart agricultural techniques such as drip irrigation, agroforestry, and drought-resistant crops.
The project also emphasized climate finance mobilization, equipping municipalities with the knowledge and tools to access national and international funding for climate adaptation initiatives. By building local capacity, this initiative ensured that climate resilience efforts would continue even after project completion.